Bay Weekly’s Primary Primer

By Sandra Olivetti Martin with Katie Dodd

We understand. We’ve all had so much on our minds. election day is upon us. Indeed, early voting — brought to us by last year’s General Assembly — gave us six days to vote (September 3-8, except Sunday) before traditional Election Day, September 14.

So you’ve come to your last chance to interview the people you’ll be hiring to manage your public — and as often as not, very private — life.

Maryland House and Senate in six Maryland districts, 27 and 29 through 33;Anne Arundel County Council in all seven districts;Calvert County Board of Commissioners.

Many other races — from U.S. Senate to Maryland governor to a couple of spirited congressional races to sheriff in both counties to Calvert’s School Board — deserve your attention. We’d love to give them our attention, too. But we’d be writing a book, not a newspaper.

So we’re limiting this year’s Primary Primer to the candidates at county and state level in the region we call Chesapeake Country: Anne Arundel and Calvert counties from Severna Park to Crofton to Solomons.

We learn who’s running from the State Board of Elections. Using the email addresses and phone numbers they’ve provided, we offer candidates an opportunity to introduce themselves to you with brief biography (compiled by Bay Weekly researchers), photo and their answer to this question:

When your term in office is finished, how will you have used our vote — and our trust — to make our county, and state, a better place to live?

Letters go out by email, followed as needed by a second email and often a phone call.

Some candidates never answer; we take that as a gauge of their interest in winning your vote.

Read on, meet the candidates and vote smart.

Anne Arundel County Executive

No contest until Nov. 2.

DemocratsJoanna Conti — No contest.

Green Party Michael Shae — No contest.

Republicans John Leopold, incumbent — No contest.

Anne Arundel County Council District 1

DemocratsDemocratic primary voters choose between current Councilman Daryl Jones and newcomer Wanda Williams. The winner competes in November against Republican John Moran, who has no primary competition.

Daryl Jones, incumbent No response.

Wanda Williams No response.

RepublicansNo contest until November.

John E Moran IV — No contest.

Anne Arundel County Council District 2

There’s plenty of experience and name recognition in this race for an open seat, vacated by Councilman Ed Middlebrooks, who has served the two terms now allowed by county law. Democrat Dan Klosterman is a former council member; Republican Gary Middlebrooks is Councilman Ed’s brother and longtime campaign manager.

DemocratsDemocratic primary voters choose one of two to compete in November.

Dan Klosterman No response.

Demetria Sugar Stallings No response.

RepublicansRepublican primary voters choose one of two longtime residents of the Second District, both with some political experience, to compete in November.

John Grasso

49-year-old resident of Glen Burnie and graduate of Glen Burnie High School; married with one grown son. Evolved through three careers: chef and manager at La Fontaine Bleu; licensed aviation airframe and power plant engineer; real estate developer and landlord. In 1986, ran in the Republican primary for county executive — loosing by fewer than 20 votes. Says “I enjoy working on cars, boating, fishing, taking care of animals and, this year, watching the Ravens go to the Super Bowl.”

www.electgrasso.com

I am a lifelong resident of Anne Arundel County who touts my experience as a small business owner as a guide for county government. I believe as a small business owner I know how to manage budgets and make fiscally responsible decisions.

My goal as a councilman is that we crack down on illegal immigrants in the county and cut all county funding to any nonprofit agency that provides assistance to known illegal immigrants. I want to make John Leopold’s Executive Order 24 the law in the county, inspecting companies that do business with the county, making sure that they do not employ illegal immigrants.

We need to complete the slots parlor, which will result in $30 million dollars in direct revenue to the county and nearly 3,000 jobs with 1,300 family-sustaining jobs.

I am committed to donating a large portion of my council pay to charities in Northern Anne Arundel County. I am not entering public service to get rich. I’m running because I enjoy public service.

Gary Middlebrooks

Lifelong resident of 2nd District of Anne Arundel County. Married over 22 years with two daughters and three grandchildren. Owns and operates a small business, A Computer Connection. 20-year campaign manager for his brother, Councilman Ed Middlebrooks. Republican activist, elected to State Central Committee for Anne Arundel County in 2006. Appointed to the Local Workforce Investment Board in 2008. Platform includes cutting government spending, helping small businesses grow, and lowering taxes.

http://garymiddlebrooks.org

Some of the things I would like to say I accomplished as a councilman: Anne Arundel County is a better place to live. The county is a safer place to live because our police officers, fire fighters and teachers have the resources to do their jobs. We need to find out what is really polluting our rivers and creeks and take the appropriate action to fix them once and for all.

Anne Arundel County Council District 3

Lots of deja vu here, as two former Republican councilmen — ‘Dutch’ Holland, 1990-’94, and Tom Redmond, 1994-’98 — use the end of Councilman Ron Dillon’s eight years as their opportunity to get back on the job. Two more Republicans are running. Democrats have a one-man field.

Democrats Charlie Parks —Uncontested.

RepublicansRepublican primary voters choose one of four — among them two former councilmen — to run in November.

Perry Ealim

Resident of Pasadena. President and CEO of Merge Business Development Systems, helping minority businesses to certification. Task force member of Anne Arundel County BRAC (Base Realignment and Closure). Created community networking group C.H.E.W. (Community Health Education and Welfare). Platform includes strengthening education and teacher rewards; increasing job opportunities; strengthening citizens’ property rights.

www.electperryealim.com

As a person who lives on the waterfront, I am in hopes of leaving behind laws that will inspire others to look at the waterways of our community as a way of life and a part of our quality of life. One must remember that one person’s vote is just that, one person. I want to reach across and educate others who are elected and in the community about water rights and standards. I look for ways that will bring both sides to the table for discussion. There is room for give and take on both sides. I would hope that I could be a voice of reason, and the day I leave office people on both sides will say that we may not have gotten all that we wanted, but at least we got our needs met with openness and inclusion of others’ ideas.

Derek Fink No response.

Carl ‘Dutch’ Holland No response.

Tom Redmond

63-year-old lifelong resident of Anne Arundel County educated in Anne Arundel County public schools, graduating from Severna Park High School. Lives in Pasadena. Father of seven; grandfather of 14. Appointed to Governors Advisory Council on Recycling by Gov. William Donald Schaefer, 1990. County councilman from 1994-’98, responsible for repealing the county’s boat slip tax. Retired entrepreneur, who spun his 20-year-old towing venture into a multimillion-dollar-a-year enterprise. Founder of Annual Pasadena Thanksgiving Parade. Survivor of cancer in 2003.

www.tomredmond.com

My top environmental focus will be the restoration of Furnace, Marley and Rock creeks. I will stop all sewage spills into these creeks. I will go after the real polluters of these creeks and expose them. I will begin the much-needed dredging and stormwater retrofits for these creeks.

The Cox Creek Sewage Treatment Plant in Pasadena is one of the major polluters of the Chesapeake Bay. If the Cox Creek Sewage Treatment Plant can’t meet the Federal Clean Water Act, I will introduce legislation placing a moratorium on this operation.

Anne Arundel County Council District 4

Sitting Democratic Councilman Jamie Benoit has no competition, and no worries, till November, when he faces the Republican who voters choose in this primary.

Democrats Jamie Benoit — No contest.

Republicans

Republican primary voters choose one of two.

Tim Hallihan No response.

Charlotte Weinstein

44-year-old resident of Millersville. Degrees from University of Baltimore (J.D. and Jurisprudence); George Washington University (M.A. in Criminal Law). In private practice of family law. Former assistant state’s attorney for domestic relations. Member of Maryland Criminal Defense Attorneys’ Association. Received Certificate of Appreciation from YWCA Domestic Violence Services.

One of our most outstanding environmental issues is the condition of our rivers. Pollution is a dirty word, and we all have a civic duty to do what we can to clean up our waters.

I have been approached by many county residents complaining about local offenders who run their dirty household water waste into street gutters that flow into storm sewers. I’ve also been informed that many residents who oppose city sewage over septic systems are digging trenches from their basements into storm gutters to release raw sewage from bathrooms. I’ve been shown pictures of water with soap bubbles flowing from the driveways of residents who have pipes running under their driveways for the release of these gray waters.

It’s time for us all to work together to clean up our environment by obeying the laws of our county as well as a moral obligation to planet Earth.

Anne Arundel County Council District 5

Term limits leave yet another empty seat with two Republicans seeking to replace Councilwoman Cathy Vitale, who goes on to compete for a seat in the House of Delegates. Democrats get a vote but no choices.

Democrats

Paul G. Rudolph — No contest.

RepublicansRepublican primary voters choose one of two, with plenty of choice points in their very different backgrounds. Maureen Carr-York is a lawyer and former nurse with a public health focus. Dick Ladd is a retired soldier.

Maureen Carr-York

54-year-old resident of Anne Arundel’s Fifth District since 1988. Married 36 years to high school sweetheart; mother of two grown daughters. Degrees from Catholic University (B.A. in nursing); Georgetown University (J.D.). Former public health nurse. Practices as attorney defending health care providers and drug product manufacturers. Broad school board experience, stretching from Anne Arundel County School Board to Executive Board of the Maryland Association of Boards of Education to National School Boards Association. President of Greater Severna Park Councils. Endorsed by the Maryland League of Conservation Voters, Teachers Association of Anne Arundel County and current District 5 Councilwoman Cathy Vitale.

http://maureencarr-york.com

When my term in office is concluded, the citizens of Council District 5 will know that they have been represented by an honest, forthright public servant who took the steps necessary to maintain essential county services while addressing the financial challenges of this difficult economic time. They will see schools staffed and equipped to educate the next generation of area residents, a community college serving all ages and levels of experience and services for our seniors and our most vulnerable citizens maintained. Economies will have been found to streamline services without damaging the mission or increasing the overall tax burden on our residents.

Residents will also see important county standards and procedures for planning, zoning and subdivision respected and upheld with careful regard for adequacy of public facilities and environmental safeguards. They will see improvements in the condition of our streams, rivers and Bay due to improved wastewater management and septic upgrades as well as better stormwater management practices.

My husband and I raised our family here, and our older daughter and her husband are now proud homeowners on the Broadneck Peninsula. I am determined to leave office with our treasured waterways protected for this next generation of citizens.

Dick Ladd No response.

Anne Arundel County Council District 6

DemocratsDemocrats in the Sixth District have all the fun, choosing one of two very different candidates to represent them in County Council. Chuck Ferrar, an old-style worked-his-way-up Democratic small businessman with strong party and union ties, was appointed to the council last winter to fill an abandoned seat. Chris Trumbauer is a new-style cause Democrat, green and liberal.

C.W. ‘Chuck’ Ferrar, incumbent

67-year-old resident of Gingerville. Owner of Bay Ridge Wine and Spirits; Rotarian. Married for 46 years, father and grandfather. Appointed by fellow council members in December, 2009 to replace Annapolis mayor-elect Josh Cohen. Endorsed by the Anne Arundel County Fraternal Order of Police, Lodge 70; the Anne Arundel County Deputy’s Sheriff’s Union; Teamsters Local 355; AFSCME Local 1693, representing Anne Arundel County schools’ non-teaching workers; and six Annapolis aldermen and women.

www.chuckferrar.com

I am proud of what I have accomplished in nine months, and I look forward to even greater accomplishments. Protecting the environment is a priority. I voted for and support legislation that promotes the use of alternative energy sources. Currently I’m supporting legislation to offer tax credits for newly constructed homes that fully implement green technology or follow LEED guidelines. I’m also working hard to amend existing stormwater management legislation to make it the strongest protection possible for our environment and will support increasing fines and penalties for all violators of these protections.

Education is another top priority of mine. With my colleagues on the Council, I led the fight to restore funding cut by the County Executive to Annapolis schools. Work begun on the new Germantown Elementary School and the renovation of Annapolis Elementary and the Phoenix Center project are both back on schedule.

Consensus building is a necessary skill to effectively serve citizens. Councilman Jones and I worked together to restore funding for the Community Action Agency. I also worked together with Councilman Dillon to protect funding for our county libraries.

The biggest challenge the Council faces is the budget. Projected shortfalls indicate a series of tough choices. My experience as a successful small businessman will help me guide the Council and ensure that as we balance the budget we continue to preserve our quality of life and range of services.

Chris D. Trumbauer

35-year-old Annapolitan resident of Tyler Heights, backpacker, nature-lover and family man (married with two small children), lifelong Marylander. The executive director of West/Rhode Riverkeeper is making his first run for elected office “to end business as usual on the County Council.” Graduate University of Maryland (chemistry) and Leadership Anne Arundel; former vice president of South River Federation; chair, Annapolis Mayor Cohen’s Environmental Transition Team; former DNR biologist. Endorsed by Maryland League of Conservation Voters; Maryland Sierra Club; Progressive Maryland; Teachers Association of Anne Arundel County; NARAL Pro-Choice Maryland; Maryland Voters for Animals; and the former councilman to whose seat he aspires, now Annapolis Mayor Josh. Cohen.

www.christrumbauer.com

The County Council is where the rubber hits the road on so many issues that I care about. Land use, education, our environment — important decisions that affect our health, our pocketbooks and our quality of life — are made at the county level. The community needs someone they can trust to make the right choices on these important issues. I’m an environmental scientist who will strive to consider immediate and long-term impacts of each issue facing the council.

The next council will face many difficult decisions and have to make some hard choices. Comprehensive rezoning, the continuing budget challenges and our aging infrastructure: these are just a few examples of what will be a tough road ahead. On the council, I will look out for the interests of our community and not the special interests that will be trying to influence these decisions.

I have a history of volunteerism, civic service, community leadership. This is who I am, and this is why I will always do what’s best for the residents of District 6. As councilman, I will be inclusive, accessible and responsive to my constituents, while working to continually improve our quality of life.

Republicans

Doug Burkhardt — No contest.

Anne Arundel County Council District 7

Republican primary voters choose one of five in the hottest race in county government for a council seat filled by appointment last year by the other six County Council members after two-term elected Councilman Ed Reilly left early to fill Janet Greenip’s unexpired term in the State Senate. Tricia Johnson has held the appointed position for a little over a year.

Again, Democrats have a vote but no choice.

Democrats

Torrey Jacobsen — No contest.

Republicans

Phil Bissett

54-year-old resident of Mayo, where he grew up and now lives with his wife and three sons. Appointed as delegate in District 30 in 1992; re-elected in1996. Won the Republican Primary for County Executive in 2002; lost to Janet Owens in the General Election. Appointed by Gov. Bob Ehrlich as Assistant Secretary, DNR and director of compliance, Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration; head, MARC; former Giant Foods warehouse man and Teamster. Self-employed as a licensed contractor.

www.PhilBissett.com

As my father taught me many years ago, “Leave it better than you found it.”

It is my goal when I leave office to have voters in Council District 7 say that their quality of life has improved. While I am in office, our government will be open and responsive, and above all I will be accountable to my constituents. I will stop wasteful spending, work to achieve smaller government and make your government more responsive to the taxpayer.

With my experience, I bring to the table a common sense, conservative approach to traffic planning and traffic control, sediment runoff control, storm water management, economic development and job creation and environmental controls that will make our waterways and tributaries cleaner and protected for years to come.

It is my goal to provide value for your tax dollars. By voting for me, you are voting for smaller government today for a better tomorrow.

Michelle Corkadel

41-year-old resident of Mayo, where she lives with her husband and two children, who attend public schools. Rotarian; Master Gardener; Board Member, Crofton Regional Community Center. Served on County Executive’s Transition Team (transportation, land use and environment); chairs Anne Arundel County Planning Board. Works as executive administrator for Baltimore architectural firm.

www.electmichellecorkadel.org

There are incredibly serious fiscal issues, land-use issues and education issues facing our district. These issues will affect our quality of life, our property values and the taxes we pay.

The county now faces a $150 million projected deficit. Deficit budgets, deficit spending and higher taxes hinder the county from providing superior services. These shortcuts have a debilitating effect on our communities, our schools and infrastructure (like transportation and the environment). When services suffer, property values decline and less tax revenue is generated. The only way to stop the cycle is to reduce spending without sacrificing services. I will eliminate duplicative services and re-prioritize spending.

To restore fiscal health to the county, ensure our infrastructure is maintained to meet current and future needs and maintain a high quality education system requires people of substance, experience and commitment to do the hard work of overseeing and guiding our county for today and for tomorrow. I have the proven experience, integrity and the full-time commitment to be effective from day one.

Success will be measured by how effectively we implement fiscally conservative solutions and how quickly we restore economic health and quality of services that make our county great.

Tricia Johnson

56-year-old resident of Davidsonville. Mother of five. B.S. in communications from Monmouth College. Appointed to Anne Arundel County Council in 2009. Leadership evolved through family-related organizations: president of Mother of Twins; past president Anne Arundel County Board of Education, Davidsonville Elementary School PTA, South County Pre-K Cooperative; past vice president South River High School Sports Boosters; board member, Davidsonville Athletic Association. Owned small framing business for 16 years; works as director of events, marketing and membership, Lake Presidential Golf Course.

I was appointed to fill this Council seat in July, 2009. From that time until today, I have tried to listen to the needs and respond to the concerns of the citizens of South Anne Arundel County. From Crofton to Shady Side, the issues are similar in what people want: a great education for the children, safe communities, careful stewardship of our natural resources and common sense in balancing the budget. I listened and learned.

There are also unique issues in each of our towns and our countryside. This district is rich with farmland, streams and waterways, as well as home to small businesses and hard-working households. Our constant commitment to the maintenance and improvement of all these areas should be foremost in decisions by the County Council. I have worked to that end and hope to continue to serve the citizens of District 7 for another four years. I hope that when my term is finished my district will say that I always listened to the concerns and worked to make this a better county.

David Lee Norkus No response.

Jerry Walker No response.

State Senate District 30

Anne Arundel County, Shady Side to Annapolis. No primary contest for voters of either party. Make your choice on Nov. 2.

Democrats

John Astle, incumbent — No contest.

Republicans

Ron Elfenbein — No contest.

House of Delegates District 30

DemocratsDemocratic voters choose three of four to compete against three Republicans on Nov. 2. Two are oft-elected and well-known, including Mike Busch, who rules the House as Speaker. Two have still to win an election, though Shirley Little is a familiar name on the ballot for this seat.

Michael Busch, incumbent

63-year-old Annapolitan. Married with two school-age daughters in Annapolis public schools. Elected to House of Delegate in 1986 and as Speaker of the House in 2003. Graduated from St. Mary’s High School — where he later taught and coached — and Temple University (B.S. in history). High school and college football player recruited for NFL until an injury ended his career. Endorsed by Maryland League of Conservation Voters; Maryland Chapter of the Sierra Club; and Maryland Farm Bureau. Ranked 100 percent on Maryland Humane Scorecard. Remains active in youth and community athletics; works in Anne Arundel County Department of Recreation and Parks.

www.speakerbusch.com

As a former coach and teacher, I have spent my career building coalitions to improve the quality of life for all Marylanders. I have advocated for programs to improve the Chesapeake Bay and waterways and to clean up our environment. I am committed to cracking down on polluters to fully restore the Bay to its majesty.

I have also worked hard to protect the lives of our children and expand job training and job opportunities for the residents of Anne Arundel County. We are fortunate to have a strong community college system and university system in our state that is the cornerstone of a vibrant economy. I want to keep investing in these job-creating opportunities and help streamline government to spark private sector investment in our communities.

Over the past four years, the state has cut thousands of positions and billions of dollars from government spending. We will continue to balance the state’s budget each year, while supporting schools, environmental and public safety programs across Maryland.

Virginia P. Clagett, incumbent

67-year-old resident of West River. Lawmaker for 36 years: delegate since 1995 after five terms as Anne Arundel County councilwoman. Helped create Jug Bay Wildlife Sanctuary. Endorsed by the Maryland League of Conservation Voters; Maryland Chapter of the Sierra Club; Farm Bureau; State Education Association; AFL-CIO; and NARAL Pro-Choice Maryland. 100+ voter on Maryland Humane Scorecard.

www.virginiaclagett.com

When my term is finished, I would hope to leave behind a legacy of innovation and effective measures that will show, at last, and with certainty, the revitalization of our irreplaceable Bay and its many resources. I have always said that if we don’t support the land, we will never save the water. I will, therefore, continue my long fight to save the lands and shorelines from harmful development by supporting wise land acquisitions through fully funded Open Space and Rural Legacy programs, among other measures. I support the proposed storm water initiatives so desperately needed for the health of our waterways.

A quality educational system continues to be a top priority for me and is crucial to the economic well-being of our state and country, for it translates into jobs and successful businesses. I hope to see that my hard-fought and successful legislation, Affordable Housing Land Trusts of 2010, will be another tool to provide housing for our valuable workforces. Again, this is a plus for businesses large and small.

I feel fortunate to be able to point to these accomplishments that I hope will continue to earn the trust of my constituents and Marylanders all over the state.

Judd Legum

31-year-old Annapolitan lawyer, in private practice. Married. Chaired the Market House and City Dock committees for Mayor Josh Cohen’s transition team. Represents the city on the Severn River Commission. Former research director for Hillary Clinton’s presidential campaign and the Center for American Progress. Degrees from Pomona College (B.A. in public policy analysis) and Georgetown University Law Center (J.D.) In first campaign for elected office, won endorsements from Maryland League of Conservation Voters; Maryland Chapter of the Sierra Club; Maryland AFL-CIO; SEIU; and Maryland Votes for Animals.

www.juddlegum.com

The 25-year, multi-billion-dollar effort to restore the Bay has been a failure. If we don’t act quickly, we face an economic and environmental disaster.

I believe, in the next four years, working in tandem with other states in the watershed and the federal government, we can and must make measurable and substantial progress in restoring the Chesapeake Bay to health.

We need to tighten pollution limits — and then enforce those limits — establishing tough penalties for those who break the law. There cannot be any exceptions for the powerful and well-connected. To sustain a healthy Bay, we must implement real, enforceable smart growth policies for future development. New development should always be linked to real transportation infrastructure, including complete streets that are safe for pedestrians, bicyclists, mass transit riders and motorists.

Our success will hinge on our ability to stand up to special interests that have impeded progress for so long. That’s why I’ve never taken money from state lobbyists or PACs, and I never will.

Shirley May Little

61-year-old Annapolitan; mother of two grown daughters. Anne Arundel County teacher for over 36 years. Degrees from Johns Hopkins (Masters in education) and the University of Maryland (Doctorate in education and administration). Elected to Board of Directors of the Teachers Association of Anne Arundel County. Volunteer at Bywater Boys and Girls Club and Parole Rotary Club Volunteer of the Year. Ran unsuccessfully for District 30 in 2002 and 2006.

www.shirleylittle.com

At the end of my term as District 30 Maryland State delegate, I predict that I will have met certain goals. I thoroughly researched the concerns of each constituent who contacted me. I studied each piece of legislation that arrived at my desk and worked with others to plan for change. I was visible to the public and demonstrated my hands-on attitude as a delegate. I helped to create and voted for legislation to clean up our Chesapeake Bay and protect local natural resources so that everyone can enjoy them for years. I helped to stimulate the economy by creating a welcoming atmosphere for large employers as well as supporting small dynamic business ventures. Families focused on the use of good parenting skills and benefited from more plentiful affordable housing in the area.

State Senate District 31

DemocratsChoose one of two to compete in November. One, Carey, is familiar as a two-term president of the school board. The other has gained a certain notoriety in investigations of missing campaign signs.

John Edward Booze No response.

Edward ‘Ned’ Carey

Lifelong resident of Brooklyn Park, here he and his wife live in the Fifth Avenue house where he was born. Son Nick is a senior at North County High School. Degree in urban planning from the University of Maryland. Former two-term president, Anne Arundel County School Board; also serves on the boards of the Maryland Association of Boards of Education, Chesapeake Arts Center and Harbor Hospital. Works at BWI-Thurgood Marshall Airport as the deputy executive director of the Maryland Aviation Administration.

www.ned2010.com

If elected to the state Senate, I’ll work hard to help small businesses generate jobs, I’ll work hard to ensure that our state education system remains a top priority, and I’ll work hard to help preserve the health of the Chesapeake Bay.

This economy has been rough on all of us, but particularly on those who own or work in a small business. As your senator, I’ll work to protect local small businesses and to help stimulate the county economy.

Everyone has a stake in educating our children, and as a member of the Anne Arundel County School Board, I had first-hand experience with our public schools and using your tax dollars as efficiently and effectively as possible. Concentrating funds in the classroom with the children has and will always be a top priority for me.

The Chesapeake Bay is one of Anne Arundel County’s most precious and vital resources. As your senator I’ll work to ensure that our children can enjoy what we enjoyed. I’ll work to make it possible for our children to learn to appreciate the incredible fishing, crabbing, swimming and boating resource that we’ve always known.

RepublicansChoose one of two — the incumbent or a populist — to compete in November.

William Thomas Capps Jr.

Resident of Glen Burnie; married with four grown children and “lots” of grandchildren. Graduate of Ft. Meade High School. U. S. Army Veteran and member American Legion Post 277. Truck driver, making first run for elected office.

If I am granted the honor of serving the Citizens of District 31, I hope to restore the principle of America first. My goals are to set conditions to make Maryland number one for business to thrive, thus putting citizens back to work. I want to fight to ensure cities like Brooklyn Park are once again a place to live with dignity and respect and most of all a place to live in a safe neighborhood.

I hope to end my term being remembered as a straight shooter who did not snow-job the American people. Too many times politicians of both parties get into this for self-gain. I find that pathetic.

Bryan Simonaire, incumbent No response.

House of Delegates District 31

DemocratsDemocratic voters choose three of four to compete against three Republicans on Nov. 2.

Jeremiah Chiappelli

32-year-old, raised in Maryland, graduated Chesapeake High School and now, with his wife, raising young daughters in Pasadena. Eagle Scout. Former Hollywood extra. Congressional intern with Wayne Gilchrest. Degrees from Saint Mary’s College of Maryland (political science and theater arts); and the University of Maryland School of Law. Lawyer and principal of Chiappelli Law Firm, focusing on legal problems that affect the average person. Environmentalist, small business owner and volunteer.

www.votechiappelli.fatcow.com

When my term is finished, I hope that thousands of Marylanders are back at work and making money by helping the environment in new green collar jobs. One of my dreams is to leave office and go swimming in the creeks and rivers of Anne Arundel County and see the bottoms in clear water. I want to use the government to help when it should and get out of the way when it shouldn’t. I hope that when my term is finished, the people of Maryland enjoy more freedoms than they did when I started my term.

Robert L. Eckert No response.

Stan Janor

52-year-old resident of Stoney Beach in Pasadena and community association vice president. Degrees from Johns Hopkins and University of Baltimore School of Law. “I derive a great deal of pleasure just by living here and watching others, including my dogs and the abundant waterfowl, enjoy themselves in the water.” Supervising attorney in the Public Defender System, District 1. Endorsed in his first campaign by Progressive Maryland, Maryland, Baltimore and D.C. AFL-CIO, Equality Maryland and the Stonewall Democrats.

I would like to be remembered for being honest and responsive in all my dealings with my constituents, and that I truly understood their concerns and acted upon them as best I could within the realm of possibility.

In District 31, with its miles of shoreline and waterways that feed into the Chesapeake Bay, I would hope to be seen as someone who was very much a watchdog on the environment and who was instrumental in providing legislative support and funding for its protection. In many ways, I believe folks here see us very much as being in “the land of pleasant living” and that it is important to preserve this not only for ourselves to enjoy, but for the many generations to come.

Besides being purely an environmental issue, preservation of the Bay is also very important in the economic sense. Thousands of jobs literally depend upon the health of the Bay, from the watermen to the marina service providers to the employees of the many waterfront restaurants and many, many others.

If I could be remembered as someone who helped preserve this part of our way of life, that would be as significant an accomplishment as any elected official could ever realistically hope to achieve.

Justin Towles No response.

RepublicansIn a field led by three incumbent Delegates, Republican voters choose three of four to compete against three Democrats on Nov. 2.

James Braswell

Resident of Pasadena.

Teddy Roosevelt said, “I would rather go out of politics feeling that I had done what was right than stay in with the approval of all men, knowing in my heart that I had acted as I ought not to.” In other words, I will never sell out the people of this county to further my own political career.

Don Dwyer Jr., incumbent

52-year-old resident of Glen Burnie; graduate of Glen Burnie High School; married; father of three and grandfather of one. Delegate since 2003, seeking a third term. Executive Director, Institute on the Constitution. Director, American College for Cultural Studies. Extreme social conservative dedicated to narrowly defining marriage in law or by Constitutional amendment. Gun Owners of America 2006 Legislator of the Year. Endorsed by Maryland Right to Life.

www.delegatedwyer.com.

I have defended the constitutional rights and protections of Maryland’s citizens since first being elected in 2002.

Since 2006 I have turned my attention toward the issues effecting the rivers and creeks in my district. After collecting and reviewing lots of data, I broke a story in January 2009 that FOX News covered revealing that Furnace Creek had been closed for over 30 years, and that all the research pointed to untreated raw sewage as the bacteria killing the creek.

It turns out that three of the state’s longest-running fecal bacteria-affected creeks are in my district. Marley, Furnace and Rock creeks have been closed to public use for nearly three decades. In spite of the evidence, state and county officials continue to argue that septic systems and animal waste is keeping these creeks closed. Ironically, two of the three creeks had public water and sewer installed nearly 28 years ago.

I will not be discouraged by a lack of support from Maryland’s environmental community who seem to support whatever theory is presented by the county or state regarding pollution. I have and will continue to research and disclose the real issues that are killing our creeks.

Nicholaus ‘Nic’ Kipke, incumbent

31-year-old lifelong resident of Anne Arundel County; elected in 2006 as Maryland’s only delegate living in Pasadena; married with two children. Advocate for families of children with special needs; supported creation of the Maryland Commission on Autism. Fiscally conservative; environmentally conscious; chaired Anne Arundel County Workgroup on Clean & Healthy Creeks. Managing partner of an independent factory-representative firm. Endorsed by National Rifle Association; Maryland Farm Bureau; State Education Association; and Right to Life.

www.kipke.com.

One of the most pressing issues in my district is the health of local creeks and rivers. Pasadena, Glen Burnie and Brooklyn Park are surrounded by waterways like Furnace Creek, Marley Creek, the Magothy River, Bodkin Creek, Rock Creek and the Patapsco River. We made progress these last four years to fund massive upgrades to the pumping stations on Marley and Furnace creeks.

I also voted to fund the single largest environmental capital project in history, resulting in the complete rebuilding of the sewage treatment plant on Ft. Smallwood Road. This project is funded, and construction is under way. This alone will prevent hundreds of thousands of pounds of pollution from reaching our waterways each and every year, ensuring cleaner water with higher oxygen levels and healthier aquatic life.

I am extremely pleased with the progress we are making and will be firmly committed to supporting policies to protect environmental health.

Steve Schuh, incumbent No response.

State Senate District 32

No primary contest for voters of either party. Make your choice on Nov. 2.

RepublicansRepublican primary voters choose three of five to compete against three Democrats, all elected delegates, on Nov. 2.

Stephanie A. Hodges No response.

George Law

67-year-old, lifetime resident of Anne Arundel County; owner and operator of Law Brothers Hardware in Ferndale. Ran unsuccessfully for County Council in 2002 as a Green Party candidate. Ran unsuccessfully for House of Delegates in 2006 as a Democratic Party candidate. Entered this race as a Democrat before switching registration.

http://georgelaw32.com

My name is George Law, Republican candidate for the House of Delegates, District 32. Many of you will recognize my name as an environmental activist in the state. I am very familiar with green politics and have created The Green Environmental Watchdog cable blurbs as well as the radio talk show on WYRE, “What It Means to Be Green.”

I will expand the core Republican ethic of personal responsibility to the environmental cause to encourage every citizen and every business to step up to the plate to claim responsibility for Chesapeake Bay restoration! As you may expect, I am a fiscal conservative; however and more importantly, I am a resource conservative. I will not tolerate further degradation of our environment and will work diligently to restore!

Wayne Smith No response.

David Starr No response.

Derick Young No response.

State Senate District 33

DemocratsNo candidate on the ballot.

RepublicansThree Republicans are on the primary ballot, but this primary is virtually a two-man race headed directly to the Maryland Senate as there is no general election competition. Insiders — many of whom refuse to choose sides — describe primary competition as a “bloodbath” between two party regulars each contending to be the more conservative.

Brian Benjers No response.

James King

36-year-old, about-to-be-married resident of Gambrills seeking to move from House to Senate; owner of Kaufman’s Tavern, The Rockfish Restaurant (the first EPA green-certified restaurant in Annapolis) and Kings’ Catering.

www.king4maryland.com

I believe that when my first term as state senator concludes, the voters of District 33 will look back and clearly see the work and progress that I have made, crafting legislation that assisted small businesses, improved the dire economic state, improved the health of the Chesapeake Bay and lowered the tax burden on hard-working Maryland families.

Constituents will reflect on my focus and efforts fighting for small businesses and my efforts to improve the overall business climate in Maryland. They will have seen how I prioritized the health of the Bay and fought to protect our environment not only because it is an environmental issue but an economic issue as well. I will have fought to protect the many jobs that the Bay creates in Maryland and will have increased the number of those jobs in my efforts.

Residents of the district will have noticed my character, integrity and work ethic. They will have seen how dedicated I was to improving our community and making Anne Arundel County a better place to work, live and relax.

Edward Reilly, incumbent

60-year-old resident of Crofton for 34 years; married for 36 years; father of four, grandfather of five. BBA in finance from Iona College. Owner of Reilly Insurance Agency. Elected twice to the Anne Arundel County Council, leaving in 2009 to accept appointment to Maryland Senate. Endorsed by Maryland Farm Bureau and Maryland Right to Life. 100 percent pro-business rating from Maryland Business for Responsive Government.

www.bigedreilly.com

As a state senator, I bring my lifelong work ethic and conservative values to Annapolis. I have signed the Maryland Taxpayer’s Pledge and will oppose raising taxes on Marylanders. I voted against Gov. Martin O’Malley’s budget and fought to cut an additional $860 million from the Maryland budget this year.

A strong defender of the second amendment, I will oppose any attempt to erode this right.

Co-sponsored pro-life legislation to provide ultrasounds to women considering an abortion and introduced a pro-life amendment chosen by Maryland Right to Life to score legislators of both parties.

I believe that marriage is between one man and one woman.

House of Delegates District 33A

Democrats

Madonna Brennan — No contest.

RepublicansRepublican primary voters choose two of five to compete against one little-known Democrat on Nov. 2. The Republicans have big name recognition and records to scrutinize. Three of the five have already been elected to the House of Delegates, where two currently serve. Another, Cathy Vitale, seeks to enter the House after serving two-plus terms on the Anne Arundel County Council.

Vic Bernson No response.

David Boschert

63-year-old resident of Crownsville, with wife of 39 years; two adult children and two grandchildren. Graduate St. Mary’s Elementary, Annapolis; Arundel High, AACC and UMD (business management). District 33A delegate from 1997 to 2007, when he gave up his seat to run unsuccessfully for Anne Arundel County Executive. Previously elected as a Democrat to three terms on the Anne Arundel County Council.

Retired Marine captain and Vietnam combat veteran, 1968-’69; adjunct professor: Anne Arundel Community College. Executive director, Maryland Classified Employees Association; president since 1987, Community Image Consultants, business development and public relations firm. Endorsed by Maryland Right to Life and Teachers Association of Anne Arundel County.

www.davidboschert.com

My philosophy is that we should take care of ours first. I’m also very concerned about individuals with special health needs. I’m talking about veterans with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder … About women, for whom I fought as a delegate to provide insurance coverage of reconstruction after mastectomies … About special needs children, who may now have to be sent out of county and state at our expense to receive appropriate education and health care.

So my contribution will be to refurbish and utilize our existing resources, creating a center for veterans, families and children at Crownsville Hospital Center.

As an Anne Arundel County Councilman, I worked with environmentalists and the business community to protect Jabez Branch, the only freshwater trout stream in the county; Tousers Branch and the upper Patuxent River, upgrading wastewater treatment before state standards were raised with a new facility at Maryland City and upgrades at Piney Orchard, Crofton and — with military cooperation — at Fort Meade. After you return me to the House of Delegates, I will have built on that record of protecting the environment from point and nonpoint-source pollution.

Tony McConkey, incumbent No response.

Sid Saab No response.

Cathy Vitale

46-year-old Severna Park resident; degrees from University of Maryland (BA in government and politics) and University of Baltimore (JD). Senior member of law firm Henault & Sysko, Chartered. Completing a unique third term as councilwoman for 5th District, having won election twice (in 2006 with 75 percent of the vote) and appointment once. Honored with Fannie Lou Hammer Humanitarian Award for contributions to the advancement of women. Chesapeake Bay Critical Area Commissioner. Elected vice chair, Anne Arundel County Republican State Central Committee; chair, Anne Arundel County Republican Party; secretary, Maryland Republican Party. Endorsed by Maryland Farm Bureau.

When others look back at my service on the County Council and as a state delegate in Annapolis, they will see a tireless advocate for the values that make Anne Arundel County such a great place to live. I hope they will see a record of striking a balance between protecting our Chesapeake Bay and keeping our county an attractive place to live and conduct business.

They will reflect on my county council record of providing tax incentives to those who control storm water runoff and keeping property taxes affordable for those on a fixed income. As state delegate, they will reflect on my record championing a culture of life in our state as well as my hard work to balance the budget by reducing state spending, not raising taxes. I hope they will also point to a my efforts to spur our economy by rolling back the record tax increase in 2007 and the hundreds of regulations that have made it so difficult to make ends meet and do business in our county and state.

House of Delegates District 33B

DemocratsNo Democrat is competing in this one-member district.

RepublicansRepublican primary voters choose one of two, thereby virtually guaranteeing the man they choose will represent District 33B in the House of Delegates. Both are familiar as Tom Angelis is a perennial candidate for something, and Bob Costa has high visibility as a fire truck driver and two-term delegate.

Tom Angelis

64-year-old resident of Davidsonville; married with grown sons; degrees from The American University (AA in law enforcement; BA in government) and UMBC (MA in education). Ran unsuccessfully for county executive in the Republican primary in 2002 and 2006. Teaches in Baltimore city schools (social studies) and at Sojourner-Douglass College in Edgewater (English). Former director, Anne Arundel County Recreation and Parks. Former police officer and sergeant, Metro Police Department, D.C., 1968-’74.

www.tomangelis.com

This summer, I have had the opportunity to visit over 3,000 homes in District 33B in my quest to serve as your state delegate. A major focus of my present and future legislative initiative is to promote the concept of term limits for elected state legislative members. During my visits to your homes, I have found only two individuals who did not believe in the wisdom of limiting the length of service to two terms for our state legislators. To support this concept I personally pledge to serve no more than two terms and will work tirelessly to make this proposal law.

In addition to term limits, many constituents have emphasized the immediate and long-term demand for better fiscal restraint and accountability on the part of the legislature. Too much unnecessary spending has occurred in their perception, and there is a need to rein in excessive spending.

When my service in the state legislature is complete after two terms, along with excellent constituent service in addressing the concerns of citizens in 33B, I will have strived to make your quality of life greater by focusing on implementing term limits and enhancing greater fiscal accountability.

Bob Costa, incumbent

52-year-old lifelong Marylander living in Deale with wife and two children. Degrees from Annapolis Senior High School and Anne Arundel Community College. U.S. Army veteran. Firefighter and EMT. Elected to the House of Delegates in 2003; now seeking third term. Legislative Leadership Awards from Maryland Association of Community Services and ARC of Maryland (multiple yeasr, including 2010). Founder, South County Republican Dinner Club. Endorsed by the Maryland Farm Bureau and Maryland Right to Life.

Among my many issues of concern, let me consider just a couple.

The environment: In our district there have been numerous rubble landfills along Sands Road. The biggest concern of my constituents in the Harwood area has been their lasting environmental impact post closure, when the cost to repair any health or environment issue could be extremely high and at taxpayer expense.

I sponsored legislation to significantly increase the bond requirements on rubble landfills to offset costs of cleanup or local disasters. I also sponsored legislation to change allowable uses of Bay Restoration funds to replace failing community septic systems with public sewer systems within the critical areas. I have cosponsored numerous other bills; I was rated at 71 percent on an environmental scorecard this year.

Constituent service:

I will continue to fight to protect our seniors. As a member of the long-term care subcommittee, I sponsored legislation that required emergency backup generators in Assisted Living Facilities.

I have become a strong advocate for the developmentally disabled, sponsoring numerous bills that have changed the way we care for our special needs community. The special needs trust legislation allows our disabled residents to continue to live in their homes after their parents have died and qualify for home rehabilitation grants and homeowners’ tax credits.

I have provided capitol grants to assist local nonprofits in, for example, providing lights at every youth baseball field in the district. I have fought for and secured the funding to dredge Broadwater and Carr’s creeks in South County.

Calvert County Board of Commissioners

Sixteen men and women are competing in the primary election for five seats on the county’s combined executive and legislative Board of Commissioners. All five current commissioners are seeking reelection. Nine of the candidates are Republican and seven are Democrats.

Calvert primary voters get five choices within their party. That’s the only straightforward aspect about the way Calvert’s commissioners are elected.

No matter how the vote falls, one commissioner must be elected from each of the county’s three districts: District 1 in the south, District 2 in the middle, and District 3 in the north. Satisfying this requirement can mean that higher voter-getters are swept aside.

The two highest vote getters regardless of district are elected at large.

In this primary, two Democrats get byes – they go straight through to the general election, as they’re the only Democratic candidates running in their district. The lucky two are Kimberly Mackall in the First and Bill Phalen in the Second. Mackall, recently returned home after a career in Georgia, is new to electoral politics. Phalen has won election to the Board of Education for three terms.

DemocratsDemocratic voters choose five of seven candidates, two of whom are serving commissioners.

Christy Burch — District 3: North Beach

31-year-old retired firefighter and paramedic, now teaching at Anne Arundel and Prince George’s community colleges. Degree in physiology and neurobiology from the University of Maryland. Says “ I enjoy researching issues and making evidence-based decisions.” Endorsed by Calvert County Teachers and AFL-CIO in her first run for a seat on the Calvert County Board of Commissioners.

I will make it easier to open or expand a small business in Calvert County, which should bring more local jobs. Specifically, inspections requirements will be placed online in a user-friendly format so that business owners will know what is expected of them. I will properly fund education, support our teachers and honor contracts. I will be an advocate for our law enforcement officers, volunteer firefighters, EMTs and paramedics.

I will take care of them so they can focus on taking care of you. I will work to improve efficiency and access to residential services. I will designate space and funding for recreation, both indoor and outdoor. The development of such recreational facilities would allow more people to participate in sports and promote healthy lifestyles for them. I will continue adding acres to the county’s permanently preserved land and encourage environmental friendly policies. I will improve the services that our residents and small businesses desperately need while protecting the quality of life that our residents have come to love.

Curtis Litten — District 3: Dunkirk No response.

Kimberly Mackall — District 1: Solomons. Gets a bye as the Democrats’ only candidate in the district. No response.

Kelly D. McConkey — District 3: Dunkirk

42-year-old resident of Dunkirk, where he owns and operates Kelly’s Nursery. Small business owner for 26 years. Member of Dunkirk Areas Concerned Citizens Association, Owings Area Community Association and Maryland Farmers Association. Attended Charles County Community College on a baseball scholarship. Married and father of four sons, all students or grads of Calvert County public schools.

www.KELLYMCCONKEY.com.

Preserving our way of life in Calvert County is a priority. As a member of our community, I will have made our county a safer place to live. Providing our sheriff’s office with proper funding so that we can increase our deputies’ presence in our neighborhoods, shopping centers and roadways will help to maintain less crime and invoke a safer environment.

As a husband and father, I will have ensured that all of our children receive a quality education. As a small business owner, I will have enabled local businesses to thrive, which in turn will enable our businesses to give back to our community. I will have supported our 100 percent volunteer fire-rescue EMS and helped to preserve our Bay and waterways. Additionally, I will have aided our seniors in receiving tax relief and provided recreational outlets for our youth.

Throughout my term I will remain honest, hard working and dedicated to the well being of others. I will have provided a fresh perspective and a strong voice for the citizens of Calvert.

Wilson Parran, incumbent — District 3: Huntingtown

60-year-old Calvert County native, living in Huntingtown with his wife of 37 years. Seeking his third term on the Calvert County Board of Commissioners, board president since 2006. Father of two; grandfather of four. Employed as chief of information technology with the Maryland Department of Natural Resources.

Member and former president of the Maryland Association of Counties. Degrees from Columbia Union College (B.S. in organizational management) and George Washington University (M.S. in information systems); additional training in leadership and managing local government. Former vice president at Bell Atlantic and chief information technology officer for industry, two Maryland state departments and Calvert County. Former member of the Calvert County and Maryland State Boards of Education and president of the Maryland Association of Boards of Education. Vietnam-era veteran of U.S. Air Force.

www.wilsonhparran.com

When my term is finished, Calvert County will be experiencing a sustainable economic recovery. I would have made the tough decisions to maintain or enhance county services to our citizens, to not raise taxes, and to not furlough or layoff our county employees. The environment will be improved because of governments working together to implement the Total Maximum Daily Load requirements with the flexibility to balance the need to improve water quality with the need to sustain our farming community while enjoying the natural resources that improve our quality of life.

My fiscally responsible decision making will have resulted in balanced budgets and wise management of tax dollars. Our school system will remain among the best in the state. Our commercial tax base will continue to increase. Support for public safety will be demonstrated through the funding for law enforcement and our all-volunteer fire and rescue system.

Succinctly, I will work diligently to ensure that our county is a great place to live, work, raise a family, go to school and operate or start a business. Our government will be even more effective in providing services to its citizens. I will serve Calvert County with the utmost integrity.

William ‘Bill’ Phalen — District 2: Huntingtown. Gets a bye as the Democrats’ only candidate in the district.

No contest.

Barbara Stinnett — District 3: Owings No response.

RepublicansRepublican voters choose five of nine candidates, three of whom are serving commissioners.

Gerald ‘Jerry’ Clark, incumbent — District 1: Lusby

57-year-old resident of Lusby with wife. County Commissioner since 2002, vice president of the Board of County Commissioners since 2006. Businessman with over 30 years experience in a variety of commercial endeavors, including real estate and retail. Owner of Port of Call Wine and Spirits in Solomons, Jerry’s of Solomons, and Duke Street L.L.C. Board member of Calvert Marine Museum and the Tri-County Council of Southern Maryland.

www.clarkforcalvert.com

Over the last two terms as county commissioner, I believe we have achieved many great things for Calvert County.

We have continued to fund and support our school system to create one of the best (if not the best) systems in the state of Maryland. We have remained committed to the safety of our citizens by continuing to generously fund not only our sheriff’s department, but also our 100 percent volunteer fire and rescue services. We have navigated these tough financial times with great success. There have been no layoffs, furloughs or cuts in services to our citizens. In June, 2010, we opened the Edward T. Hall Aquatic Center in Prince Frederick. This was a much sought-after facility by many of our residents. We have increased the amount of athletic fields in the county to better serve the youth athletic leagues that are so prevalent in Calvert County.

I remain committed to the rural character of our community, to the continued improvements of educational opportunities for all our citizens and to the conservative fiscal policies that have allowed us to flourish during economically difficult times.

Patrick Edward Flaherty — District 1: Prince Frederick No response.

Timothy Wayne Hardesty — District 3: Sunderland No response.

Linda Kelley, incumbent —District 2: Prince Frederick

67-year-old four-term Calvert County Commissioner, seeking reelection to fifth term. Married mother, grandmother and great grandmother. Former U.S. Department of the Interior property management officer. Advocate for women (20-year Safe Harbor Board member), children (successfully lobbied for passage of Jessica’s Law) and animals (serves on boards of various animal rescue groups).

As county commissioner, I am mindful of our stewardship responsibilities for the Bay as a non-renewable resource. I have supported funding for water quality studies of Mill Creek and other tributaries feeding into the Bay to monitor the health of those streams. We have set water-quality goals for those creeks, which are sampled on a scheduled basis to determine progress. We have enacted good stream buffer regulations to prevent runoff and erosion.

I have worked to control residential growth, which was at an all-time high of seven percent to a current -1 percent. Reducing the growth rate presented many challenges and was addressed thru zoning changes and an accelerated and successful agricultural preservation program. I have supported zoning regulations that set county build-out limits for residential growth, simultaneously limiting runoff and pollutants into the Bay.

Our strong agricultural preservation program has preserved 27,000 acres of land that will not be developed. This not only contributes to our quality of life but also has a positive impact on limiting runoff from lawn-care products, etc. We are currently working to implement federal and state regulations for Total Maximum Daily Load, which establishes stringent limits of nutrients into our tributaries and charges jurisdictions with programmatic and monitoring responsibilities. We will develop training on meeting the mandated requirements. The end result of all of these efforts will result in a healthier Bay for all to enjoy.

In additions, as a fiscal conservative, I have consistently been prudent with the tax dollar.

Pat Nutter — District 2: Owings No response.

Jackie Potter — District 2: Huntingtown No response.

Susan Shaw, incumbent — District 2: Huntingtown

62-year-old resident two-term Calvert County Commissioner, seeking third term. Mother of two grown children. Educated (Master’s+) as a clinical social worker/psychotherapist, now volunteering in Critical Incident Stress Management for fire/EMS/police; former small business owner.

www.ImChoosingSusan.com

I am proud to have lived up to my campaign goals. The property tax rate remains the same since 1987. Calvert County was on target to reduce the rate when the deep recession hit, forcing maintenance of the current rate. Despite greatly decreased revenues, a balanced budget was maintained with no furloughs, and a AAA bond rating was achieved. Road improvements have been made and continue. The commercial tax base has increased. Tax dollars have been spent wisely on needed infrastructure. Calvert County continues to be family friendly with new quality of life amenities. Calvert County is a better place.

If re-elected, I will provide proven leadership and a steady hand to maintain our excellent financial position during this time of continuing economic instability; I will continue to be a voice of reason; I will continue to focus on quality of life as well as environmental issues; and I will work to fix problems in Planning and Zoning and to improve county departmental management. I will continue to support our success in managing growth, the town center concept, our priority preservation areas and a myriad of other decisions that benefit the Chesapeake Bay.

Evan Slaughenhoupt — District 3: Dunkirk

57-year-old resident of Dunkirk, with wife and adult son Christopher; retired from Air Force and Department of Defense at Fort Meade in 2002; works as an aerospace systems engineer. Degrees from the University of Maryland (B.S.) and National Defense Intelligence College (Master’s in Strategic Intelligence). Served on Calvert County Ethics Commission; Dunkirk Area Concerned Citizens Association president since 2006. (Pronounce his name Slog’-n-hop.)

www.evanslaughenhoupt.com

Citizens have every reason to be skeptical if not cynical toward elected officials who all too often break their sacred trust. I am an honorable person who is unafraid to learn in public, so I anticipate having citizens remain engaged with me while in office. My motivating guideline will be to preserve, protect and promote the quality of life that is Calvert County. Citizens will be able to measure my achievements that adhere to this guideline primarily by viewing how we find and maintain a proper balance among the farming, waterway and suburban activity that has become uniquely Calvert County.

For years, I volunteered as a defender of Calvert’s quality of life, seeking the proper balance between social, economic and conservation issues. With a proper balance, we will have a civil society, provide local businesses equitable incentives to improve our economy, protect our natural landscape/waterways and respect individual property rights.

Steve Weems — District 2: St. Leonard No response.

State Senate District 27

No primary choice for either party.

Democrats

Thomas V. Mike Miller Jr., incumbent — No contest.

Republicans

Vernon Hayes Jr. — No contest.

House of Delegates District 27A

Northwest Calvert but dominantly Prince George’s County, which likely explains the low response, as only one (Russell Butler) of the 12 candidates running in both parties lives in Calvert County.

Democrats27A gives Democrats a full card for the two House of Delegate seats in this split district. Two Democrats, Joseph Vallario and James Proctor — both Prince George’s residents — have long held both seats. But with so much primary opposition and an anti-incumbent mood, insiders say at least one upset is possible.

Barry Adams — P.G. County: Aquasco No response.

Percel Alston — P.G. County: Upper Marlboro No response.

Sheri Beach — P.G. County: Upper Marlboro No response.

Jeffrey Brockington — P.G. County: Clinton No response.

Russell Butler — Calvert County: Dunkirk No response.

Theron Green — P.G. County: Accokeek No response.

Joe Harris — P.G. County: Upper Marlboro No response.

James Proctor, incumbent No response.

Joseph Vallario, incumbent

73-year-old resident of Upper Marlboro, living on a farm with wife of 51 years. Father of six; grandfather of 17. Degrees from Benjamin Franklin University and what is now University of Baltimore School of Law. Elected to the House of Delegates every four years since 1975. Chair, Judiciary Committee for 17 years, scoring the record for the House’s longest serving chairman. However he was upbraided this year by the House’s Women’s Caucus for rudeness to witnesses testifying in committee. Ranked by the Maryland Gazette of Politics and Business in top 20 most influential lawmakers in 2010. Endorsed by the Maryland League of Conservation Voters and Maryland Farm Bureau.

Throughout my service in the General Assembly, I have strived to ensure that Prince George’s and Calvert counties continue to be vibrant places for Maryland families. I have supported measures ensuring the preservation of the Chesapeake Bay and the Patuxent and Potomac rivers. Promoting best practices among Maryland farmers and encouraging conservation and responsible development among Maryland’s residents have been important steps toward the healing of the Bay and our rivers. These tributaries provide recreation and tourist attractions and are the heart of the livelihood of Maryland’s watermen. We must strive to protect these resources for both today and tomorrow’s generations.

I am committed to increasing safety for Maryland’s families, and I have supported legislation addressing domestic violence and making Maryland’s roadways safer. I have sponsored legislation providing firefighters and police officers with the resources they need to ensure the safety of Maryland residents and supported stronger legislation to provide prosecutors with effective tools needed to prosecute gang activities. I have been a staunch proponent of legislation ensuring that Maryland’s public schools remain among the best in the nation and that our children and grandchildren are prepared for the future.

James Woods — P.G. County: Upper Marlboro

56-year-old resident of Upper Marlboro; married for 37 years; father of two and grandfather of three. Degrees in business management from Prince George’s Community College and Bowie State University; and education and administration (McDaniel College). U.S. Army veteran (1972-’76). Former jockey agent and racehorse trainer. Teacher and coach in Prince George’s public schools, Frederick Douglass High School since 2000. Says “I am not a politician.”

www.woodsfor27a.com.

After my term in office, the public will see that I was a passionate Maryland citizen who made a difference in Annapolis. My approach to citizen representation was the freshest idea most had seen at the time I was elected. I will have encouraged the public to stay informed about my voting record and the progress of pending legislation. I will have opened up the lines of communication from the State House all the way down to the neighborhood sidewalk. I will have been that stern voice of reason to cease the over-inflated policies that provide no real targets for cleaning up the environment. I will have been the protector that rescued our needed legislation from being held hostage by committees. I will have been that calming presence to settle partisan differences in the House of Delegates. I will be remembered as a man of the people who worked tirelessly for the constituents. The residents of 27A will remember that September 14, 2010, was the first time they felt truly represented in our state government. Though I would only serve two terms as Delegate in 27A, the people would recall my accomplishments fondly.

House of Delegates District 27B

Democrats

Sue Kullen, incumbent — No contest.

RepublicansRepublican primary voters choose one to run against Sue Kullen on Nov. 2.

Mike Blasey No response.

Mark N. Fisher

Lifelong Marylander living in Owings with wife and three children. Graduate of George Washington University (B.A. in international affairs and economics). Entrepreneur and owner of Telecom Capital Group, supporting wireless networks with cell towers. Soccer booster and founder of Gray’s Field Foundation, preserving home field African American Baseball League’s Owings Eagles. Making his first run for elected office.

www.MarkFisherForDelegate.com

As a young boy in the 1960s and then as a teenager in the 1970s, my parents would drive my three siblings and me to Bayside Beach in Anne Arundel County. Each weekend, family and friends would gather on the shores of the Chesapeake Bay.

Norman Rockwell couldn’t have painted a more idyllic picture of life on the Bay. Playing king of the pier, swimming, crabbing and fishing were just a few of our many activities.

Yet … 40 years later, swimming in the Bay is something one does with caution and hesitation. Norman Rockwell has been supplanted by the old but infamous TV commercial of the crying Indian of the 1970s who wept at the site of pollution of our national treasures.

The Bay and its tributaries must remain our state’s greatest natural asset. The alternative is unthinkable, so we must act now.

During these trying economic times, we must wisely focus scarce resources. I support measurable improvements to Maryland’s wastewater treatment plants. Improvements must be made without delay.

There is much work to be done, of this there can be no doubt. Working together, we can make Norman Rockwell and the thousands of Indians who once lived on these shores proud.

Bob Schaefer No response.

State Senate District 29

No primary choices for either party.

Democrats

Roy Dyson, incumbent — No contest.

Republicans

Stephen M. Waugh — No contest.

House of Delegates District 29C

Southern Calvert and eastern St. Mary’s counties. No contest until Nov. 2, when voters choose one.